Vandal(s) destroy memorial tree in Bill Moore park

Some mother’s kid(s) had nothing better to do on Mother’s Day this year than destroy a memorial tree in Bill Moore Memorial Park.

The damaged tree, dedicated to Comox Valley Baseball Association player Tyler Phillips, was spotted by passer-by Doug Kennedy, who was upset by the act of mindless vandalism.

CVBA president Shannon Gaboury said the group was willing to fund the purchase of a new tree and have the city plant it. “When I spoke with Rick Rasmussen at the City, he said he was aware of the vandalism and they were already preparing to replace the tree. He did note that this is about the fifth or sixth time they have replaced that same memorial tree.”

Phillips was 16 years old when he passed away in July of 2000. The plaque by the tree reads: “He left us playing the game he loved.”

Gaboury said the CVBA has also been in touch with the City regarding a memorial for John Green, who passed away recently. Green was well known in the Comox Valley for his love of sports, most notably coaching and officiating in baseball and basketball.

He led several teams to provincial championships and was instrumental in guiding his nephew Taylor to Major League Baseball with the Milwaukee Brewers.